Guardians of the ‘Verse

Guardians of the Galaxy is roughly about a ragtag team of outlaws who create a tenuous group to take on a greater threat to save the galaxy as a whole. This is by no means the first time we’ve seen essentially criminals on the side of good. It is a time honored American tradition that even our bad guys can be heroes. A tradition we presumable stole borrowed from the British and the tale of Robin Hood. Though, in that case I suppose he is a good guy turned outlaw and then back to good guy. But I digress, the point is the formula is not new and it still works.

There are many similarities one could draw between Guardians and films of the past. Star Wars is an obvious one, but not one I’m going to go in to. Although, quickly some example might be Rocket’s ability to decipher Groot’s limited lexis into full thought out sentences or Ronan’s Sith-ish outfit.

The one that sticks out most to me is Firefly. Firefly follows the exploits of a group of ragtag outlaws who have formed a tenuous trust in order to do alittle bit of bad and a little bit of good. In addition to the premise, Guardians, like Firefly, has a bit of an Old West in space feel. However, the similarities don’t just stop at broad strokes. The characters themselves seem to fall neatly into place as well.

Peter “Star-Lord” Quill and Captain Malcolm Reynolds. The comparison is obvious with these two. They each are the leader of their little troop, but not without a little constructive pushback. Trusty sidearm in tow they have a tendency to rush in guns blazing and figure things out as they go.

Gamora and Zoe Alleyne Washburne. Both are the strong and levelheaded character who tries to keep her comrades on track. In addition, they both have unquestionable combat skills and an unending supply of confidence.

Rocket and Hoban “Wash” Washburne. I will admit this not a perfect comparison, but there is no doubt Rocket and Wash our kindred spirits. Both can be easily caught up in the emotions of things and are fiercely loyal to those they care about.

Groot and Jayne Cobb. The strong silent type would be an effective description of both these characters. Although, Jayne’s vocabulary is a bit vaster than Groot’s it isn’t by much. Although, it must be said Groot is far more loyal that Jayne could ever be.

Drax the Destroyer and Derrial Book. At first glance, this comparison might be a stretch, but they both come from broken pasts and where Drax has put that pain into working out, Book has put his toward religion. In either case, they’ve taken the extreme route.

Now, you are probably asking what about Inara, River, Simon or Kaylee? The only thing I can say is maybe they’ll be in Guardians of the Galaxy 2.